The organizers of Macef, the International Home Show, have launched The Made in Macef competition. The contest challenges international designers of home goods, jewelry, and gifts to create “containers” or “gift boxes full of transportable objects that evoke Italian style,” according to organizers, who claim the designs will symbolize the global demand for Italian exports. Judges will select 10 winners, three of whom will be awarded a prize of 2,000 euros.

The competition also aims to celebrate and re-energize the Made in Italy concept worldwide with original designs from around the globe—not just by Italians—and possibly to put small design firms in touch with large manufacturers looking for original concepts.

Entries will be accepted through midnight Aug. 12, 2009, and winners will be announced during the fair, Sept. 4–7, 2009, in Milan.

Information is available at www.macef.it/madeinmacef. 

JCK